Sichuan Peppercorn Glazed Tofu with Fiery Garlic-Chili Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili paste
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Method

1. 01
   Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss with cornstarch and salt until evenly coated.
2. 02
   Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu cubes until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. 03
   In the same skillet, add the ground Sichuan peppercorns and lightly toast for 30 seconds.
4. 04
   Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar to the skillet. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture slightly thickens to form a glaze.
5. 05
   Return the tofu to the skillet and toss to coat each piece evenly with the Sichuan peppercorn glaze.
6. 06
   To make the fiery garlic-chili sauce, mix minced garlic, chili paste, sesame oil, and soy sauce in a small bowl.
7. 07
   Serve the glazed tofu hot, drizzled with the fiery garlic-chili sauce. Garnish with fresh scallions if desired.